TAXI-HAILING firm Hirna Mobility Solutions, Inc. is adding new features to its mobile app, one of which would allow passengers to book bigger vehicles.
In a statement, Hirna said it has included Asian utility vehicles (AUV) in its taxi fleet for riders who would need a larger capacity, either for passengers or luggage.
“[E]ven if AUVs are larger that sedan taxis, Hirna will currently not charge any booking fee to encourage the passengers to use the app,” the company said in a statement, adding Hirna will keep its no booking fee offer for all taxi types.
Aside from the AUV taxi option, the company said it is also rolling out an in-app messaging and fare estimate feature.
Previously, Hirna users would need to use SMS messaging to communicate with the driver. The new feature would now incorporate a messaging tool in the app which would only require data connection.
The Hirna app would also start showing an estimate of the fare upon booking, a feature that is available in competitors’ apps.
“The estimate is based on LTFRB’s fare regulation (per kilometer and time) so it is very close to what the actual fare would be,” it said.
Hirna is a transport network company that started in Davao City and is expanding to Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Bohol, Iloilo and Bacolod City.
The company’s chief executive officer, Francisco “Coco” Mauricio, told BusinessWorld earlier that Hirna may consider entering the Metro Manila market eventually, but its priority is to offer its services to the provinces. — Denise A. Valdez
